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Welcome to the Tuesday Trailblazer, my weekly newsletter where I give actionable leadership and personal advice from my experience as a people leader.

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Today’s Email:

When I first dipped my toes into leadership waters as a fresh-faced "crew trainer" at McDonald's in the early 2000s, I was like a sponge, soaking up every bit of advice I could get. I'll never forget my store manager's words: "If you want to be a manager, you need to be prepared to work for free."

As a wide-eyed 17-year-old, I took this to heart, often clocking in on my days off to prove my leadership aspirations. Fast forward to my next role, where I encountered leaders who believed "leading by example" meant doing everyone else's jobs. They'd roll up their sleeves, thinking they were showing the team how it's done. But I soon realized this wasn't true leadership—it was a band-aid for a culture that didn't value career development or recognise the importance of each role.

Over 20+ years of leading people, I've encountered countless leadership myths and hard-earned lessons. Some made me stumble, others made me stronger, but all of them shaped my understanding of what true leadership means. Today, I want to share and shine a light on these myths, in the hope that they may help you avoid the pitfalls I've experienced and empower you to lead with authenticity, regardless of your title or position.

What we’ll cover off:

• The 7 common myths that hold potential leaders back

• Why these leadership lies are harmful to growth and team success

• How to redefine what true leadership looks like

• Practical actions to lead authentically without the title

Many people think leaders have to be a certain way. They think leaders are always sure of themselves or that you need a special job title to be a leader.

But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The reality?

Leadership isn’t a matter of being in a position of power—it’s about influence, impact, and the courage to show up authentically.

Anyone can be a leader by helping others and setting a good example… regardless of title.

A study by the UNSW Sydney found that 38% of new leaders fail within their first 18 months, often due to a misunderstanding of what leadership truly entails.

This suggests that simply having a leadership title does not guarantee effective leadership.

By busting these 7 common myths, we can all start leading from wherever we are. When you embrace your strengths and lead with empathy and authenticity, it not only boosts your own growth but also empowers your team.

Remember: leadership is not about controlling or having all the answers—it’s about connecting, empowering, and inspiring others to step up too. When you're honest about who you are and care about your team, everyone does better work and feels happier.

Alot of leaders become eager to impress and often find themselves;

• Trying to control everything, which makes their team feel bad
• Acting super confident all the time, even when they're not sure
• Thinking only bosses can make things better

These outdated beliefs can prevent you from connecting with your team, listening deeply, or showing vulnerability—all critical components of effective leadership. Leaders who chase the myths often lose sight of what really matters: building trust, fostering collaboration, and leading with empathy.

The 7 Leadership Myths and How to Bust Them

Myth #1 - Leaders Should Always Put Work Above Everything Else

Myth: Work must always take precedence.
Truth: Sustainable success requires balance and wellbeing.
How: Model work-life integration. Prioritise self-care and encourage your team to do the same.

Myth #2 - Leaders Are Always Confident

Myth: Unwavering confidence is a leadership prerequisite.
Truth: Authenticity, including admitting uncertainty, builds trust.
How: Lead with transparency. Share your thought process, including doubts, to foster a culture of openness.

Myth #3 - Leaders Must Be in Complete Control

Myth: Tight control over every task and decision is necessary.
Truth: Empowerment and trust yield stronger, more innovative teams.
How: Delegate meaningfully. Focus on outcomes rather than micromanaging processes.

Myth #4 - Leaders Must Have All the Answers

Myth: Leaders should be the ultimate problem-solvers.
Truth: Curiosity and collective intelligence drive better solutions.
How: Embrace inquiry. Ask thought-provoking questions to stimulate team creativity and problem-solving.

Myth #5 - Leaders Are Born, Not Made

Myth: Leadership is an innate trait, not a learned skill.
Truth: Leadership can be developed through intentional practice and reflection.
How: Commit to continuous learning. Seek feedback, read widely, and apply new insights daily.

Myth #6 - Leaders Must Not Be Quiet

Myth: Effective leaders are always vocal and extroverted.
Truth: Diverse leadership styles, including introverted approaches, can be highly effective.
How: Leverage your unique style. Use active listening and thoughtful communication to lead authentically.

Myth #7 - Leadership Is Only for Those With The “Title”

Myth: Only those with titles can lead.
Truth: Leadership is about influence, not hierarchy.
How: Lead from where you are. Identify opportunities to create positive change within your current role.

Start leading with impact by taking on this 4 day challenge;

Day 1: Identify Your Leadership Myth
Reflect on which myth has most impacted your leadership journey. Journal about how it's held you back and commit to challenging it this week.

Day 2: Embrace Vulnerability
Practice authentic leadership by sharing a challenge or uncertainty with your team. Observe how this openness impacts trust and collaboration.

Day 3: Empower Others
Identify a task or decision you typically control. Delegate it to a team member, providing support without micromanaging.

Day 4: Reflect and Adapt
Spend 15 minutes reflecting on your experiences. How has challenging these myths shifted your leadership approach? What impact have you observed on your team and yourself?

Don't let outdated leadership myths hinder your potential. True leadership isn't about conforming to stereotypes —it's about leveraging your authentic strengths to inspire, empower, and drive positive change.

YOU possess the innate ability to lead with impact. Challenge these myths, embrace your unique leadership style, and lead boldly from wherever you stand.

Put simply, be YOU.

Until next Tuesday,

I have built and led teams across 3 successful businesses and have over 15 years of people and business leadership experience.

Over the past 4 years, I have grown my business working with “busy” leaders across multiple industries (retail, hospitality, construction, mining, education) and helped them simplify their leadership.

Igniting their impact in leadership and at home.

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• Reclaim your time

• Prioritise your wellbeing

• Achieve work/life harmony

• Improve customer centricity

• Connect & elevate team culture

• Simplify your leadership beyond busy

• Building a bench and plan for your successors

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